How to start an art journal

Last Updated on 02/12/2023

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Find out how to start an art journal by defining the necessary tools and supplies, organizing your space and time, and making it happen. Starting an art journal is a great way to explore your creativity and self-realization through art. Firstly, any form of journal has a lot of benefits. It boosts positivity in your life and relieves stress. It’s not only about creating beautiful pages but also about discovering new techniques and experimenting with different materials. So you can cultivate new skills. Moreover, journaling the things you’re grateful for is a powerful method. Reflecting on your thoughts and emotions helps your mental health and helps you learn a lot from past experiences.

How to start an art journal

Necessary tools and supplies

The first step is to choose tools and supplies that we find easy to start. From watercolor and acrylics to pastels and inks, there is a wide variety of mediums to choose from. And, of course, there are mixed media and creative collage techniques that use patterns and always give a charming outcome. So, make a list and stock up on art supplies that inspire you. These may include pen and ink, pencils, markers, watercolors, acrylic mediums, brushes, collage materials, and any other art mediums or materials that capture your interest.

And, of course, we should choose an art journal notebook with high-quality paper that is suitable for our mediums. There’s also the option of separated journal pages that we can bind later in a cute art book. Thus, gathering your art supplies will help you experiment with various mediums at the same time.

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Organize your space

Another thing to consider is the space you will practice and how to organize it. In the beginning, everything seems difficult but as we get familiar with things become simpler. It’s important to have a case or a pouch to put our tools together. And, to choose a place with plenty of light to transform into our artistic nook.

Set Aside Regular Journaling Time

One of the most difficult things is not how to start an art journal but to find time to practice regularly. Luck of time is the most common problem when we try to establish a new habit. And, the hard part is to set priorities according to our own will and needs rather than reacting own everyday chords that never end. It’s tremendous when one realizes that in the 168 hours of the week, the 720 of the month, or the 8760 of a year we can devote 52 hours to do something we love. So, whether it’s daily, weekly, or monthly, having a routine will help you develop your skills and maintain your creative momentum. Thus, try to commit to a consistent art journaling practice by setting aside regular time for it.

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Use a list of prompts

Another way to help you start is to make and use a list of prompts. Prompts not only motivate us but also give us a guide to follow. There are plenty of these lists with various topics to make our beginning easier and more organized.

Connect with the Art Journaling Community

Join online forums, social media groups, or local art communities to connect with fellow art journaling enthusiasts. Sharing your work and engaging with others can provide inspiration, encouragement, and valuable feedback.

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Attend online classes

Online classes may be another helpful choice if we feel overwhelmed or completely lost about where to start. And the truth is that all this information through social media may confuse us or make us impatient for the growth of our skills. Moreover, we tend to spend so much time on these mesmerizing art videos. Are we ready to spend equal or more time in practice? Thus, a good online class will help us learn techniques, organize our time, and set realistic goals.

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Find relevant content

Seek inspiration from various sources such as nature, books, movies, music, or your personal experiences. Let your surroundings and interests fuel your creativity and add depth to your art journal pages. Whether it’s your favorite Instagram, TikTok account, or an easy-to-learn app, there are several sources to look for inspiration before starting. We can also collect photos of drawings and textures from magazines to use as references and make an inspirational mood board with them. But remember to keep helpful ideas, tools, and practicing methods rather than just copying.

Embrace imperfections

The hard part is not to learn to draw the perfect flower or to fill in an outstanding art journal page, but to do it with your style and self-expression. Remember, art journaling is a highly personal and adaptable practice. There are no strict rules or limitations—make it your own and enjoy the process of self-expression through art. So, embrace imperfections and mistakes as they are part of the creative process. Allow yourself to let go of perfectionism and focus on the joy of creating. The last and most important step is to define your artistic voice, stick to it, and expand its potential.

^{This page contains AFFILIATE LINKS. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, we may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Plus, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Read more on the disclosure policy page.}

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